Bethesda opens beta signups for 'Elder Scrolls' MMO+

Video game players are inching closer to their first taste of Bethesda Softworks' upcoming massively multiplayer online (MMO) game based on The Elder Scrolls.

The publisher is accepting signups starting Tuesday for a future beta test version of the game, which launches later this year. The availability of the beta will be revealed at a later date.

"We're really excited to get the game into players' hands," said Matt Firor, game director of The Elder Scrolls Online, in a statement. "We receive invaluable feedback through the beta process, and that helps us ensure that the game will be one of the best online gaming experiences ever offered."

This is the first time The Elder Scrolls has dipped into the world of MMOs. Previous entries, such as 2011's The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, have released as offline role-playing games.

6. Mixed feelings

I have really mixed feelings about it, to be honest. I love the Elder Scroll games, but have often noted that I feel rather lonely playing them, thinking it would be fun to explore with other people. But I'm so afraid they're going to turn this into just another WOW clone. SWTOR was such a huge disappointment, because it was just WOW in space. I'd hate to see Bethesda make the same mistake.